The qualification rounds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, have officially commenced. Initial betting odds from sports lotteries indicate France is the current favorite to win the tournament. Argentina closely follows as a strong contender, benefiting from a favorable draw in the qualifying stages. The competition will feature 32 teams vying for the championship title. This marks the first World Cup with an expanded format, increasing the number of participating nations. Further details regarding the qualifying schedule and team matchups are expected to be released in the coming weeks. The tournament is anticipated to generate significant economic impact for the host countries.